The Encyclopedia Americana (1920)/Hedge

HEDGE, a fence formed of living trees or shrubs. Hedges are generally composed of one or more of the following plants: Hawthorn, crab, blackthorn, holly, privet, beech, hornbeam, maple, barberry, furze, broom, alder, poplar, willow, yew, box, arbor-vitæ, sweet-briar, etc. When there are so many different species to select from, plants may be found suitable for almost all kinds of soil — such as wet or boggy, and dry or sandy; for all situations, whether sheltered or exposed; and for all purposes, such as fences against cattle, or simply as ornaments for garden and pleasure grounds.